Class Times & Cost

Instructors

Laura Gilbert, Instructor, 2nd Dan (Judo), Black Belt (Karate)

Laura started training under Mike James in 1990 at the age of six after following her brother into Judo. Since that day, Laura has never looked back. One of few women to attain black belts in two Kyushindo disciplines she is now a 2nd Dan instructor in Judo with a black belt in Karate. In 2013, Laura took a three month career break to teach self defence and karate at an all girls summer camp in New York State. After returning from America with lots of new ideas for her classes, Laura and Kevin Arblaster set up the Kyushindo Ladies Self Defence classes at Thameside School in Abingdon.

“My next goal is to train for my 1st Dan in Karate by the end of 2015. I will also be growing the Ladies Self Defence classes and raising awareness in the community for ladies to know how to stay safe. I want to get the best out of all my pupils in every aspect of Judo and Ladies Self Defence. I always aim to make my classes fun, effective and a confidence boost for everyone who attends.”

Paul Clayson, Judo Area Coach, 4th Dan (Judo), 2nd Dan (Karate)

Paul started training in both the Karate and Judo in 1985 with Mike James, although he now concentrates on the Judo side of Kyushindo. He is the Senior Instructor at Didcot Kyushindo Judo Club.

“To run a mixed club for both juniors and adults of any ability. Not having a “natural ability” with martial arts myself, I aim to help all students improve at their own pace.